The agent of Brazilian youngster Marquinhos has claimed that Manchester United want to sign the defender.

Marquinhos, a 19-year-old centre half who has impressed in Italy after a series of dominant performances for Roma last season, is understood to be attracting the attention of Europe’s leading club.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, agent Roberto Calenda said: ‘There are offers from PSG, Manchester United and Barcelona - and Roma could accept one of them.

In demand: Manchester United are reported to have lodged a bid for Roma defender Marquinho (left)

It is believed that PSG are the favourites to snap up the highly-rated teenager, with reports suggesting that the player’s agent has been negotiating a 5-year-deal with the French Champions. Roma are looking for a bid of around £25million.

Barcelona, who are keen to bolster a defence that was last season left exposed by injuries to Carles Puyol and a downturn in form for Gerard Pique, are also monitoring the situation but the Catalan side’s No 1 target remains Thiago Silva of PSG.

While United have shown an interest, the Red Devils would appear to be the side with the least need to bring in defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season. Despite concerns over Nemanja Vidic’s injury problems and Rio Ferdinand’s advancing years, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans are seen as the future at the heart of the United defence.

Roma, meanwhile, are believed to have given Marquinhos their blessing to leave the club and the Italians have already brought in a replacement - Moroccoan defender Medhi Benatia from Udinese.